The Evolution of Alchemy

Acoustic Alchemy - Granada Theater - Dallas, TX

April 15, 2008

First Appeared in The Music Box, June 2008, Volume 15, #6

Written by Kirk deCordova

Mon June 16, 2008, 06:30 AM CDT

The smooth jazz ensemble Acoustic Alchemy is a longtime favorite of Metroplex audiences, and not surprisingly, north Texas fans of the outfit were pleased when it stopped at the beautiful Granada Theater on April 15. Having first graced a Dallas stage in the 1980s, Acoustic Alchemy called the now defunct Caravan of Dreams in Fort Worth its home during the ’90s as well as the early part of the new century. Although the band’s style has evolved over the years, most notably after the passing of founding member Nick Webb, its energy and musicianship has remained unchanged.

Acoustic Alchemy is a five-piece band that consists of guitars (Greg Carmichael, Miles Gilderdale), keyboards (Fred White), bass (Gary Grainger), and drums (Greg Grainger). The outfit actively continues to tour the globe, bringing its brand of guitar-based jazz to a worldwide audience. At the Granada, Acoustic Alchemy sampled a wide range of its catalogue, including its classic tune Jamaica Heartbeat. The group also tackled material from The Beautiful Game, Radio Contact, and its latest offering This Way.

Naturally, Acoustic Alchemy’s faithful fans enjoyed the evening, which was full of nylon- and steel-string guitar performances. The highlight of the night, however, was a funky, free-form scat by Gary Grainger, who was accompanied by his brother Greg. The band’s encore thrilled the audience, and after the show, the musicians signed autographs in the theater’s foyer. Although Acoustic Alchemy’s line-up and sound have changed during the last 20 years, the outfit’s professionalism and dedication clearly have remained constant. The show was an enjoyable night for all.

Of Further Interest...

Pat Martino - El Hombre

Lee Ritenour - The Best of Lee Ritenour

Victor Wooten - Palmystery

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